Landscape & Amenity Product Update February 2020

Amenity Standard set to be a game changer for the sector

There is much greater public and political interest related to weed, pest and disease management, especially linked to chemical use.

The reasons why chemicals need to be used, as part of a fully integrated approach, in seeking to provide safe, healthy amenity spaces and sports surfaces, is not always clear to the public and stakeholders.

The wider public users of amenity spaces need to have clear assurances that all those involved in creating and maintaining safe, healthy sports grounds and other amenity spaces, operate at the highest professional standards.

“It will give assurance that work undertaken is of the highest professional standards by those committed to best practice in every aspect of operations.Those who work in amenity management undertake important and essential operations seeking to create safe and healthy amenity and sports spaces fit for purpose. Introduction of the Standard is we believe a major step and demonstrates once again the high levels of professionalism to be found in our sector.”

The Amenity Standard will be operated by the Amenity Forum who will maintain, review and regularly update matters as required.

The Amenity Standard is designed to:

Provide an industry benchmark

• Provide a basis for continuous improvement

• Focus on quality as an objective

• Provide assurances about the quality of the approved organisation and maintenance of the amenity space

At the 2019 Amenity Forum conference and exhibition, the new Amenity Standard was introduced, prior to its full formal launch in 2020, similar to the Red Tractor in food and agriculture.

Those operating to the Standard and displaying its logo will demonstrate their adherence to recognised assured standards in all tasks undertaken.

Professor John Moverley, Chairman of the Amenity Forum, said: “We feel this to be exactly the right time to introduce this Standard which we hope will be sought and demanded from all who operate in amenity management.

Outdoor workers exposed to more pollution than the average Londoner

An app developed by King College London as part of the British Safety Council’s Time to Breathe campaign is building on a growing evidence base that proves outdoor workers are exposed to air pollution well above the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommended limits.

However, huge variance in quality and coverage of air quality measurement across the UK suggests the problem could be greater than previously thought.

Over six months the Canairy app has gathered data from a sample of Londoners. Outdoor workers were exposed to air pollution

Some maximum exposures were nearly two thirds higher than recommended WHO limits. The workers were in two groups, some mostly working in offices and others mostly working outside. Although both groups were exposed to high levels of air pollution, those working outside are exposed to worse pollution than the average Londoner.

British Safety Council’s head of campaigns Matthew Holder said: “Canairy confirms what we also thought – if you work outside in a city or near a busy road you are putting your health at risk. What is new is that we now have the technology for individual workers to record their exposure.

the evidence base that makes the case for change.

“As a first step we must urgently adopt the WHO guidelines on PM2.5. But we also need investment in measurement so we can understand who is at risk and how people can limit their exposure to harmful air pollution.”

At its launch, three Assurance Schemes are to be recognised by the Standard – the Property Care Association Scheme for Invasive Weed Management and two schemes offered by BASIS Registration, Lawn Assured and Amenity Assured.

Electric launch for Farmtrac

• Ensure that quality assurance scheme operators recognised under this Standard use auditors with technical knowledge and experience of the sector concerned

• Promote confidence in organisations operating and providing resources in the amenity sector by provision of a robust and transparent standard

Farmtrac, the latest compact tractor brand to the UK market, has launched its all-new, allelectric model.

The production-ready FT25G electric tractor featuring a lithium-ion battery represents the future, claims UK distributor Reesink.

Steven Haynes, tractor sales manager at Reesink Agriculture, Farmtrac’s UK distributor:

“The FT25G electric tractor is compact in size, but has more than enough power to be a useful, reliable and practical alternative to the small compact diesel tractor.

“The fact that it’s battery powered brings all the benefits you’d expect from choosing electric, such as no fuel costs, with no compromise to productivity and performance.”

Reesink Turfcare

The professionals finish

Amenity Forum

British Safety Council

Robust steel edging and planters designed for high quality commercial and domestic projects.

This year has got off to the traditionally busy start thanks largely to another successful BTME in Harrogate. There was also a successful LAMMA show at NEC Birmingham and a number of other industry events in January which helped ensure the post-Christmas and New Year fog lifted quite quickly.

There there a lot of product launches to keep visitors to both LAMMA and BTME busy this year and this innovation is a positive sign for the wider industry as companies continue to invest in R&D and look to push the boundaries more.

The coming year will also see a number of other significant events taking place, not least the launch of the important new Amenity Standard spearheaded by The Amenity Forum with widespread support from a number of other influential organisations. The new Standard is an important addition for the industry as it continues the process of cementing the world class standing of our wide variety of professionals, companies and groups who contribute so much to the UK’s economy. Setting the bar high is something that the industry as a whole has an excellent track record in doing and 2020 looks set to highlight its growing importance.

This month we also look at the Play & Activity industry and its on-going attempts to place the need for high quality play facilities on the political agenda. It promises to be just as busy and significant over the next 12 months for this industry to. Elsewhere we also look at Hedge & Verge mowing with Jane Carley and a spotlight on Sweepers, Collectors, Blowers and Vacuums.

The process is completed in one motion with just a single probe. We penetrate the soil beyond the root zone to a depth of one metre and then inject 100psi of high pressured, compressed air into the ground. Whilst the probe is inserted into the ground, a natural underground void is created and then back filled with Terramol to the surface, creating a permanent drainage soakaway.

Recent injection projects include: football pitches, golf greens, race courses, local parks and public spaces.

BIGGA unveils award winners during BTME 2020

The UK’s best and brightest greenkeepers were recognised at a dazzling awards ceremony hosted by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association on the opening night of BTME 2020.

The traditional curtainraiser of the exhibition is the BIGGA Welcome Celebration, sponsored by Campey Turf Care Systems and hosted by television presenter Naga Munchetty.

Michael Davie, the course manager at Hazel Grove Golf Club in Stockport, has tirelessly supported many BIGGA members and other greenkeepers.

Having overcome periods of depression in his own life, Michael (59) established the “Greenkeepers mental

health support group” on Facebook, where turf industry professionals from all over the country can come together to support each other.

In addition to this, Michael also hosts a regular meet-up in Manchester, where greenkeepers come together to discuss issues and provide a helping hand.

In recognition of the incredible effort he has put in to supporting his fellow greenkeepers, Michael was awarded with the Outstanding Contribution of the Year Award sponsored by Jacobsen.

The award is one of three BIGGA Awards given out to members during the event, in addition to the Championship

Going for the buzz at Sawgrass

Each year John Deere, in association with the British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of Ireland, sends seven association members to Ponte Vedra Beach in Florida to join the agronomy team on the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass for the duration of The Players Championship – the unofficial fifth men’s Major tournament.

It’s an incredible experience, where the volunteers get completely immersed in the hosting of the PGA Tour’s flagship event with flights, accommodation and other costs all thrown in.

Representing the British and Irish associations, the successful seven selected to join the John Deere TPC Sawgrass Volunteer Programme in March 2020, working alongside the home greenkeeping team as part of the volunteer course maintenance force of over 90, are:

BIGGA

• South East: Ben Hunter, deputy course manager, The Richmond

• South West & South Wales: Mark Tucker, head greenkeeper, Neath

• Central England: Alex Brougham, deputy head greenkeeper, Trentham Park

• Northern: Peter Lewis, greenkeeper, Royal Liverpool

• Scotland: Eddie Irvine, deputy head greenkeeper, Trump International Aberdeen

• International: Yannick Weber, assistant superintendent, Cape Kidnappers, New Zealand

GCSAI

• Ireland: Dean O’Connell, greenkeeper, Grange Golf Club

This year’s tournament dates are March 12-15, 2020; the John Deere sponsored group flies out to the US on Friday March 6 and returns on Tuesday March 17.

Greenkeeping Performance of the Year sponsored by Rigby Taylor and the Greenkeeping Project of the Year sponsored by Baroness and Kubota.

The winner of the Championship Greenkeeping Performance of the Year Award was revealed to be Grant Peters and the team at Parkstone Golf Club in Poole following the successful hosting of the Ladies’ European Amateur Championship in July 2019.

The Greenkeeping Project of the Year Award was won by Darren Anderson MG and the team at Bromborough Golf Club. The team replaced a 46-year-old irrigation system, alongside rebuilding greenside bunkers. Completing the work in house, it is estimated that

the greenkeepers saved the club around £150,000.

For the first time, a new set of prizes were introduced at the BIGGA Welcome Celebration.

The BIGGA Excellence in Communication Awards sponsored by Campey Turf Care Systems seek to recognise those BIGGA members who have embraced communication as a vital tool available to the modern greenkeeper.

Awards for the best use of social media and work in the community will be handed on the second day BTME on the Campey Turf Care stand, but at the BIGGA Welcome Celebration, the winner of the Innovation and Thought Leadership Award was unveiled.

The award is given to the BIGGA member who had written the most thoughtprovoking article for BIGGA’s monthly magazine, Greenkeeper International, with Ryun Holden of Golf Club Wylihof in Switzerland

claiming the inaugural prize for his feature discussing the importance of conveying a positive message from the greenkeeping team to golfers at their club.

BIGGA

John Deere

Landscape Architects declare climate and biodiversity emergency

Leading UK landscape architecture firms are calling on landscape architects around the world to act in response to climate breakdown and biodiversity collapse.

UK Landscape Architects Declare, founded by 14 landscape architecture practices and individuals, is asking for collective action to confront the twin crises of climate breakdown and biodiversity loss as ‘the most serious issue of our time’.

UK Landscape Architects Declare said in a statement: “We know that we have just over a decade to address the twin crises of global climate heating and mass biodiversity loss, or we risk catastrophic damage to the natural world.

“Meeting the needs of our society without breaching the earth’s ecological boundaries will demand a paradigm shift.”

Members of UK Landscape Architects Declare have pledged to design landscapes with a more positive impact on the environment, which should then be part of a larger self-sustaining system.

The idea is that a wide-ranging declaration of intent, followed by action, international cooperation, and knowledge sharing, will help facilitate this transformation.

The founding signatories of UK Landscape Architects Declare include Grant Associates, Gillespies, Kim Wilkie, LUC, Gustafson Porter + Bowman, Churchman Thornhill Finch, Townshend Landscape Architects, J+LGibbons, LDA Design, Studio Engleback, Dan Pearson Studio, Nigel Dunnett, Landscape Projects and Kinnear Landscape Architects.

“As landscape architects we are in a position to use our skills towards delivering a climate positive future and we can directly help protect and enhance biodiversity, and the wonder of the natural world,” said Andrew Grant, one of the initiators of UK Landscape Architects Declare and director at Grant Associates.

“Landscape Architects Declare aims to inspire landscape architects to stand side-byside, using our collective voice - and action - to create this more sustainable future. At practice level, Grant Associates recognises the climate and biodiversity emergencies as the defining challenge of our times.

By acknowledging the urgency of these twin issues, it becomes a moral, as well as a practical, imperative to address them in everything we do.”

Action points proposed by UK Landscape Architects

Declare include:

• Raise awareness of the climate and biodiversity emergencies and the urgent need for practical action amongst clients co-consultants and supply chains.

• Preserve and protect existing irreplaceable landscapes and habitats whilst protecting and optimising areas of functional and biodiverse landscape in all developments.

• Adopt a whole systems approach to landscape design recognising that soils, bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi are key factors for ecosystem survival and carbon sequestration.

• Promote low embodied carbon, and look to maximise carbon sequestering, responsible and sustainable use of water and biodiversity net gains in all projects.

• Establish climate and biodiversity mitigation, adaptation and resilience principles as the key measure of the industry’s success: demonstrated through awards, prizes and listings.

STIHL launches new innovative pro cordless mower

STIHL continues to expand its range of high-performance mowers with the introduction of the new RMA 765 V, a professional cordless mower with a 63cm cutting width, ideal for landscapers tackling large grass cutting jobs.

Powered by a 36V high capacity Lithium-Ion batteries from the STIHL PRO cordless system, the robust RMA 765 V is ideal for work in noise-sensitive areas and is highly manoeuvrable thanks to the zero turn function of the front wheels. Both front and rear wheels are height adjustable from 25mm-100mm.

The new mower boasts an innovative five-speed control panel, featuring an eco-mode and a battery power level indicator to ensure professional users have full sight of the performance of the machine at a quick glance.

The ergonomic mono-comfort handlebar, with super soft grip, is adjustable to three different heights, allowing users to find the most suitable setting and

providing easier access to the grass catcher box.

Designed with strength, weight and protection in mind, the aluminium and polymer hybrid housing features front, side and gearbox protection, as well as the polymer inner housing being impact and abrasion resistant.

In addition, the 63cm cutting deck utilises synchronised multi-blades that lift the grass, cut it efficiently and blow the grass cuttings into the grass catcher bag.

Thanks to the optimised design shape and air guide, the 80 litre bag can be 100% filled, while the combination of tear resistant fabric, polymer base and steel frame ensure the catcher box is hard wearing.

Designed with a foldable handlebar, the STIHL RMA 765 V cordless mower is easy for landscapers to transport and convenient to store. Additional features include a diagnostic connection for servicing and a safety key required for operation. STIHL

www.kuhn-amenitypro.co.uk

Kubota unveils prototype electric tractors

Kubota Corporation has unveiled prototypes of electric tractors and electric compact construction machinery (mini excavators), which are currently under development, at a new product exhibition held in Kyoto City.

Kubota will proceed with the continuous development by conducting demonstration experiments and analyzing the needs of local users.

In response to the global shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), Kubota has engaged in reseach and development of electrically powered equipment, such as

motors, inverters, and battery packs, to prepare for future opportunities.

Kubota

proves itself to be great

Tai Tarian are one of the largest social landlords in Wales, responsible for over 9000 properties across the Neath Port Talbot County Borough. A dedicated Arb team make up one of seven in-house grounds maintenance teams, looking after the borough’s green spaces.

With over 7000 trees under their remit, a QuadChip 160 from GreenMech is keeping the team on track, providing ultimate flexibility for kerbside working.

Martyn Davies, Senior Neighbourhood Coordinator, spearheads the team which was set up in 2012. “The very first job was to source the machinery we

were going to need to cope with the variety of tasks of materials we were going to be handling.

Access when turning up to narrow car-lined streets is one of our biggest headaches but having seen the full 360o turntable on the QuadChip 160, we quickly decided it was the right chipper for us.”

So impressed with the versatility it delivers, Martyn has exchanged the chipper like-for-like three times, taking delivery of his newest model in January 2020 from their local dealer, Powercut (Wales) Ltd.

Grant Associates

GreenMech

BE BLOWN AWAY

POWERFUL & EASY TO USE

Well-balanced and powerful handheld blower for professional use. The patented X-torq engine technology in combination with the special fan and housing design means high blowing capacity that is easy to control. The anti-vibration system Low Vib makes work less strenuous – even during long shifts. With intuitive controls, such as Cruise Control which contribute to efficient and convenient operation at all times.

For more information and to locate your local Authorised Husqvarna dealer visit: HUSQVARNA.COM/UK

525BX PETROL BLOWER

Powerful, ultra-low vibration handheld blower with high blowing capacity.

• 25.4cm³ Displacement

• 4.3kg Weight

• 1.2m/s2 Vibrations

• 13m³/min, 70m/s

Woodland Trust publishes emergency tree plan

The Woodland Trust has published its Emergency Tree Plan – the first of its kind and a challenge to governments. It sets out how the UK can rapidly increase tree cover to help reach net zero carbon emissions and tackle the declines in wildlife.

Key points include:

• Design and fund an approach to woodland creation that addresses both the climate and nature crises together

• Annual rates of woodland creation need to be more than doubled, starting in 2020

• New targets for quality of woodland creation as well as quantity

• New grants should be provided for natural regeneration of trees

• An emergency increase in resources is required to help national and local government deliver on Government tree pledges across the UK.

Dr Darren Moorcroft, CEO of the Woodland Trust said: “Tree planting rates are the lowest in decades, and 1 in 10 wildlife and plant species is under threat from extinction. Disease and pests have taken hold and risk wiping out millions of our native trees. Never has the picture appeared bleaker.

“We’ve seen a lot of talk about trees and that is welcome but we’ve yet to see the action that is required. We’ve left ourselves a phenomenal amount to do in a very short space of time. The

moment of crisis has come and action needs to be taken this year.

“Our Emergency Tree Plan... outlines what needs to be done to increase our tree cover to help tackle the climate and nature emergencies and to help the UK reach its targets for net zero carbon emissions.

“Government needs bold policies and local authorities and landowners need the support to act swiftly and of a scale to expand tree cover across the UK. I can’t stress enough that we can’t be here,

in the same position next year for all our sakes. The report, titled Emergency Tree Plan for the UK, follows a General Election in which we saw major tree planting pledges from every political party.

“The Trust is also launching a new campaign calling on the government in each UK country to adopt ambitious policies and plans for expanding tree cover and to provide the resources to do this,” he added.

The Woodland Trust

Next generation of DLF’s ProNitro seed coating

DLF Seed’s ProNitro Coating Technology has been helping greenkeepers and groundsmen achieve stronger germination, faster establishment and lower input costs since its launch at BTME 2016.

Four years on, the next generation of ProNitro is now available, featuring DLF’s new Hydroactive Water Management Technology.

ProNitro’s targeted combination of controlled release nitrogen and sustainable water distribution optimises the delivery of essential nutrients and moisture to the developing seedling.

With sustainability an everincreasing priority for turf managers around the world, the ProNitro coating ensures available water is used more efficiently. Giovanny Lopez, Lead Seed Coat Technologist for DLF explains, “The new

ProNitro ® formulation has been conceived and developed as a direct action for input optimization on grasses, improving water distribution in the field.

“Making the best of every drop of water gives both the grass seed and the fertiliser the optimum conditions for establishment, strong root development and healthy, vigorous growth.”

In trials, ProNitro coated seed contributed to a 34% increase in establishing plants and a 30% improvement in root growth.

In addition, the targeted nitrogen application system reduces the leaching of unutilised fertiliser into the environment by more than 50% when compared to traditional chemical applications.

STIGA has been the name to trust when it comes to lawnmowers for over 80 years.

The revolutionary mowers and gardening tools available in the range, provide the innovative design and quality needed for professional use.

For 2020, STIGA has just launched its brand new website. It offers ease of use and exciting new elements which not only enable customers to find and read about products

quickly but also to provide more detailed hints and tips on best practice lawncare.

On the new STIGA website you will be able to access information on: all STIGA mowers and gardening tools; buying direct from the STIGA website; catalogues; dealership information; gardening calendar; expert page for hints and tips; and products of the month.

DLF Seeds

STIGA

Hard work is par for the course in maintaining Warwickshire Golf Club. But STIHL’s professional range of petrol and cordless tools provides everything the Grounds Team needs to get the job done right.

Built to make the toughest jobs as easy as possible, whilst being reliable and robust, you can count on STIHL tools whenever you need to use them.

With brushcutters, hedge trimmers, chainsaws and more, whatever challenges your team come up against, the STIHL professional range helps you achieve the perfect finish.

AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL STIHL DEALER. STIHL.CO.UK

Alan Prickett joins ISEKI UK

ISEKI UK & Ireland are pleased to announce that Alan Prickett has joined the growing team in the role of Business Development Manager, responsible for dealers in the central band of the UK, along with key and national account sales.

Alan is a very well-known figure in the industry having previously worked for many years at Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd. Prior to his leaving there in July of 2019

he held a number of positions ranging from Regional Sales Manager to Managing Director.

Commenting on the appointment David Withers adds; “Alan will be a great asset to the team at ISEKI, he will be looking to further drive market share gains in the compact tractor and collecting mower categories where ISEKI excel.”

KAR UK raises the tempo at Bromley FC

Bromley FC’s players and staff have reported a huge improvement in their synthetic pitch after a Hunter Industries irrigation system from KAR UK was installed at the stadium.

Bromley FC is currently plying its trade in the Vanarama National League and plays its home games at Hayes Lane Stadium – which, over recent years, has undergone a significant transformation.

The stadium investment saw the construction of a new South Stand which has allowed for an additional 1,450 seats, and two years ago an all new FIFA certified synthetic pitch was installed.

Bromley FC’s First Team Coach Alan Dunne provided the reasoning behind the club’s switch from natural to synthetic turf.

“In winter, our natural pitch would often be in a bad condition and games would have to be called off, which would have a huge impact on revenue,” he said.

“Even when the games were on, the pitch could be waterlogged, it would slow down our play which would then cause further damage.

“It is for this reason that we decided to have a synthetic surface installed because it offers all-year round play as well as providing the club a constant stream of revenue by renting it out for the local community.

“We are a hugely ambitious club and we are doing everything possible to make sure that we continue to progress up the football leagues.”

The new pitch was soon installed and opened up to the wider community, and even though the extra revenue would help the club compete in terms of transfer fees and player wages it became apparent that something was missing.

The Hunter ST irrigation system is designed for the specific needs of synthetic turf sports pitches. Featuring long-range irrigation sprinklers, unique swing joints, durable irrigation valves and

nearly indestructible vaults, Hunter’s ST system offers everything required to keep synthetic turf pitches cool, clean and playable.

The enhanced radius rotors are perfect for football pitches, where smaller radius rotors might fall a little short – meaning that every inch of the pitch can be watered.

The system, which also comprises of an ICC2 controller and an EZ decoder system, sees the ST1600 rotors installed in six positions around the pitch – one on each of the four corner areas and one either side of the halfway line.

Snickers Workwear FlexiWork insulated jackets and trousers

Street-smart, stylish looks and market-leading GORE-TEX and 37.5® fabric technology make these jackets and trousers a must for winter on site or for outdoor leisure activities.

You’ll stay warm and dry in this layered clothing that’s robust, waterproof and windproof too! The design and fabric combinations will keep your body in the optimum comfort zone as the weather conditions change on site. They’ve got all the features and functionality that you’d expect in Snickers Workwear Jackets and Trousers.

They’re great looking garments that will keep you feeling comfy wherever you are and whatever you’re doing at work in cold weather.

With a range of winter accessories to choose from as well, Snickers Workwear’s FlexiWork and ALLroundWork garments feature contemporary designs packed with must-have features that focus on fit, comfort and freedom of movement as well as using innovative fabrics that deliver long lasting protection.

Dave Harrison retires from Campey

Campey Turf Care Systems export sales manager, Dave Harrison, announced his retirement after ten years and left the company at the end of 2019.

Dave joined Campey in 2009 from Dennis SISIS with a wealth of experience and global industry knowledge. His remit was to develop further growth in sales throughout the European and world

markets as well as introducing the Campey range of products into the Middle East and Asia.

With Dave’s involvement, Campey has become an established presence in Asia, with Dave himself becoming very popular with all the customers he has worked with.

Snickers

ISEKI

KAR UK

Campey Turf Care Systems

Bradstone launches 2020 Training Academy

Leading British paving manufacturer, Bradstone, has opened the doors to its 2020 Training Academy and is encouraging merchants to secure a place now to avoid disappointment.

Now in its sixth year, the Bradstone Training Academy, which will run from 21st January to 5th February 2020, is open to all merchants looking to expand and improve their knowledge and skills within the ever-evolving hard landscaping industry.

The training is running on selected dates throughout January and February at five Bradstone sites across the UK – Hulland Ward, North End, Motherwell, Brentford and Ashington. The training will cover a wealth of useful information, from understanding Bradstone’s business and products, through to the customer journey.

There will be product training, top tips on upselling and support tools to take away. What’s more, those that book onto training days at Hulland Ward or North End will finish the day with an exclusive behind-the scenes site tour.

Heather Foo, Regional Sales Manager for Bradstone, comments: “The Bradstone Training Academy is a key event in the merchant calendar and we’d encourage anyone interested in these events, and particularly interested in Bradstone’s product offering, to book on soon to avoid disappointment. We’ve already had two dates sell-out, and expect the remaining dates to get snapped up quickly.

“With summers seemingly getting warmer, we have seen a noticeable shift in consumer attitudes towards investing in the outdoors for the long term which

is driving desire for premium paving and, consequently, creating a significant opportunity for merchants to upsell. We want to give merchants the tools and training required to confidently advise their customers on the latest products and installation methods to empower them to

continually grow and improve their business.”

Each training session will run from 10am – 3pm, with lunch and refreshments provided throughout the day.

FSP on track with rail projects

A drainage and access cover manufacturer is making inroads to the transport infrastructure market after completing deals on several high profile rail projects.

Fabweld Steel Products has supplied its flagship FAB PAVE covers to schemes in the Midlands and London that will provide improved travel links for travellers.

The covers give access to below ground services such as drainage or power networks whilst blending the floor’s paving to provide a seamless surface. They are typically used in areas that demand a prestige finish.

More than 100 were supplied for the new Worcester Parkway terminal, which is due to run its first trains later this month. The development includes three 265 metre long platforms, a main

station building, a pedestrian footbridge and surrounding landscaping. The covers are located across the site and were supplied via sub contractor Pronin Ltd.

FSP delivered 24 FAB PAVE sealed and lockable access covers for the £17.8m redevelopment of the White Hart Lane overground station in north London to the Joseph Gallagher Group. The project includes a new station building with ticket hall and entrance and step-free access from street to platform.

FAB PAVE covers were also supplied to Colas Rail for landscaping around extensions to the Midlands Metro network in Wolverhampton and Birmingham city centres.

Wrekin offer 10-year

Engineered for a long life and assured performance, the Unite series of manhole covers and gully tops from Wrekin Products now comes with a ten-year guarantee–the first time a manufacturerhas demonstrated such confidence in this type of product.

The leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of products for the civil

engineering industry is so certain of the range’s durability–which has been in service on highways around the UK for more than 11 years with zero failures on 250,000 installations–that itis now providing any compliant Unite product installations with added reassurance of their performance.

Bradstone

Fabweld Steel Products

Wrekin Products

Controlling moss in urban areas

This time of year, moss is not only a slip hazard, but an unsightly problem for many residential and built up urban areas.

When the weather turns damp, moss needing moisture and shelter to grow, starts to thrive in shaded areas hidden from the wind and sun. As it grows and spreads quickly it needs to be controlled in its infancy to stop it getting out of hand.

A common problem for organisations is finding an effective product to remove moss. Glyphosate has little effectivity – meaning it requires multiple treatments a year to control it.

Foamstream has been used successfully across many municipalities to control moss with one treatment per year. Once treated, it dies immediately and naturally biodegrades.

For an aesthetically pleasing outcome, following with mechanical brushers or using Foamstream’s pavement cleaner with in-built brushes will make this process immediate.

To get in touch or find out more about how Foamstream can help your organisation contact www.weedingtech.com or email info@weedingtech.com.

EverEdge Titan steel edging

EverEdge Titan steel edging is the perfect edging system for landscape contractors looking to install a strong, flexible and unobtrusive edge to a variety of surfaces including lawn, resin bonded and tarmac.

EverEdge Titan can be specified in a painted, cor-ten or galvanised finish to suit all projects and in a range of heights and thicknesses.

EverEdge Titan is fixed into the ground every 600mm with a tough 10mm thick fixing pin ensuring the edge stays in place for many

years once installed cutting down on costly and time consuming maintenance. The Titan range has been used on projects including hospitals, stately homes, driveways and schools as well as parks and gardens around the country.

Green-tech adds a touch of green to McEwan Hall

Bristo Square sits on part of the estate of The University of Edinburgh, nestled against the southerly edge of Edinburgh’s old town and McEwan Hall has undergone a significant expansion.

Works in Bristo Square included tree planting, creation of more social spaces and improved accessibility.

In order to protect the tree pit soil from compaction, Landscape Architect Ironside Farrar specified Green-tech’s ArborRaft tree planting system which is widely used across the country in urban tree planting projects.

The ArborRaft System combines nutrient-rich ArborRaft soil with exceptionally strong geocellular units. Together they create a healthy growing space for trees in areas subject to vehicle loadings and trafficking.

Individual ArborRaft units are locked together to form a raft system that sits within the tree pit. The system works by spreading

the load of any vehicle movements around the tree’s rooting area which eliminates soil compaction within the pit and helps to create the ideal growing environment for the trees to establish and mature.

In conjunction with Landscaping and Forestry Contractors M W Groundworks, Green-tech supplied over 200 tonnes of Green-tree ArborRaft topsoil and subsoil. Both of these manufactured soils meet British Standards and are regularly tested to ensure quality of composition and consistency across deliveries.

Green-tech also supplied the gtSleeper and Kerbstone tree anchoring systems, along with gtRootBarrier and Mona Relief tree irrigation pipes.

The gtSleeper and Kerbstone Anchoring system utilises heavy objects such as sleepers and kerbstones to weigh down the tree and act as anchor points.

gtRootBarrier was supplied to control and protect the tree roots,

as well as protecting structures from the root system. This helps the tree to establish quickly and keep it healthy, especially in the first five years of life.

Supreme Concrete launches new stockist guide for 2020

As part of its commitment to supporting the built environment, Supreme Concrete, the UK’s leading manufacturer of precast concrete products and fencing systems, has released its new stockist guide for 2020.

The easy to use brochure has been updated to incorporate the latest changes to its extensive product offering following the addition of Anderton Concrete’s building and fencing products into its

In addition to its updated product offering, the newly refreshed guide provides customers with a simple pricelist to help streamline the planning and

Mark Swift, Director of Sales for Supreme Concrete, said: “Our latest stockist guide provides a handy catalogue for customers to refer to when selecting specific products for each project they are working on.

“This can be easily done through the guide’s simple breakdown of the products’ attributes, including colours, textures and pricing.

“2019 has seen a fantastic increase to our product range, including the inclusion of preblended packs of high quality Shearstone Walling Stone, all of which can be found in our new stockist guide.”

www.kuhn-amenity.co.uk

Weedingtech

EverEdge

Lack of water at the tree’s root

ball can be detrimental to the lifespan and survival of the tree so the Green-tech Mona Relief irrigation system was supplied.

Green-tech

Supreme Concrete

Long Rake Spar decorative aggregates used at the new RHS Rosemoor garden

The new RHS Rosemoor garden is nestled in a North Devon Valley and designed with rainfall in mind.

Addagrip approved contractor IDream Solutions were chosen to provide the surfacing for this stunning garden using specialist dried aggregates supplied by Long Rake Spar.

IDream Solutions installed over 320m2 of resin bound pathways for the new Cool Garden designed by multi-awardwinning designer Jo Thompson.

The design has a strong focus on water, embracing the challenge of the high levels of rainfall experienced in the region.

The garden consists of a series of curving rills which make their way through the garden, disappearing and reappearing to flow into the pond at the bottom of the sloping site.

This provides an example of how effectively a specially designed landscape can accommodate heavy rainfall and flash flooding.

With water flow in mind, BBA certified Terrabound resin bound surfacing was chosen due to its porous qualities. Long Rake Spar decorative aggregates were used within this surfacing to create the curving pathways that follow the rills and form organic shaped planting beds which help to reduce surface water runoff.

A 6mm Hazelnut natural aggregate blend was selected to contrast with the cool coloured planting scheme and complement the dry stone walling.

The garden also needed to be easily accessible for wheelchair users and the seamless resin bound surfacing ensures easy movement around it.

Furthermore it provides a low maintenance and decorative pathway for this stunning new garden. The installation was completed in time for the opening in July 2019.

Long Rake Spar

Charcon transforms station with engraved slabs

Charcon, the hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has helped to transform Walthamstow Central Station in London, providing unique poetry-engraved paving and a giant decorative sundial to a major revamp of the busy transport link.

Working with Landscape Architect Fabrik, contractors Osbourne and Toureen, the Charcon team were given a unique brief; to supply paving engraved with poetry for use on the station forecourt as well as a giant decorative sun-dial to

feature as the centrepiece of the forecourt roundabout.

The sundial itself came with its own distinctive design, with bollards acting as hour markers to prevent vehicles stopping and mounting the paving.

Stepping up to the challenge, Charcon provided a range of often bespoke solutions incorporating natural stone, concrete paving and high-end granite kerbs. The phased project saw woburn paving, granite poem slabs, kerbs and marker bollards supplied to the station forecourt.

Woburn block paving was used to provide a hard-wearing, stylish surface capable of withstanding the high traffic and footfall of the station car park, while StoneMaster concrete paving, designed and engineered to replicate natural stone was used on the pedestrian link route.

Lastly, high quality Portuguese granite was used to provide a durable and striking finish for the kerb leading to the sundial.

Aggregate Industries

Resiblock impresses in Preston

With Block Paving beginning to fail, and two major roundabouts now considered a risk to road users, Preston City Council turned to the expertise of Resiblock to find a sealing solution to ensure the longevity and safety of the councils’ roads.

The presence of weed growth between the mortar jointing had caused the destabilisation of the pavers which were falling into the road.

But with refurbished paving installed with new jointing,

Resiblock

were able to specify the use of Resiblock Resiecco to ensure long-term stabilisation and protection. The global success of Resiblock Resiecco

showed Preston City Council that this was a product to trust and has now ultimately been utilised.

Resiblock

intensifies during winter months

The Association of Play Industries (API) is once again joining forces with Leyla Preston, founder of online parenting platform Motherhood Diaries and social media influencer, to launch a new winter campaign.

The campaign highlights the need to get children outdoors and playing in playgrounds over the cold winter months.

API Chair Mark Hardy says: ‘Our Play Must Stay campaign has showed that parents are becoming increasingly concerned with the steep decline in public playgrounds.

“With the vast majority of families living in urban areas, community playgrounds are often their only chance to get their children playing outdoors and the winter months present even more challenges.

“Without access to free, local, high-quality outdoor play facilities, children can spend most of the winter cooped up indoors. The closure of hundreds of playgrounds across the UK means that the reality for many families is that children are

not even getting the minimum recommended amount of daily exercise. In the midst of a childhood obesity epidemic and rising mental health problems, we are calling on the government to urgently invest in public play provision before it’s too late.”

Leyla adds: “Last year our summer project explored how less screen time and more time spent in playgrounds impacted not only my two boys’ lives but our family as a whole. I saw a dramatic difference in their health and wellbeing. My children were happier, they slept better and their behaviour improved.

“I know that many parents are waiting for this debate to take place; so many of us know that our children are not outside enough and spend far too much time indoors and on screens, especially in winter. Parents need and deserve support to turn this around. We have wonderful playgrounds in the UK that we need to value and protect, as well as campaign for government investment in them before they disappear for good.

API

Gerflor see school success with Taraflex® Comfort

Astrea Academy is a new-build and refurbishment project in the north-east of Sheffield, which in time will become one of the city’s biggest schools taking children from nursery age up to sixth form.

With the expected levels of growth came the need for vision and future proofing for the school’s infrastructure, this included flooring for the allimportant indoor sports facilities that the academy provides for both pupils and staff alike.

The project would see Gerflor supply 550m2 of its Taraflex ® Comfort vinyl sports flooring in Teal for the academy’s sports hall, with a further 250m2 in Oak chosen for the gym area.

Being a P3 category sports floor Taraflex ® Comfort offers the highest levels of comfort and shock absorption to prevent

Winter play in playgrounds means that children escape indoor germs, benefit from the fresh air, get an essential dose of vitamin D and, of course, the chance to play, learn and let off steam.

“Playgrounds are also focal points and meeting places for communities; when children spend time excessive time indoors they are denied the social interaction so necessary for their normal development,” says Leyla. “Playing outside and making friends are the building blocks of a healthy childhood.

“Mentally and physically children benefit from playgrounds – making for happy children and happy parents! This winter campaign I’ll be exploring all the challenges parents face and engaging with parents to support the Play Must Stay campaign for playground funding.”

Major investment to help poorest children get active

Children from some of the poorest areas in England will have the chance to get physically active by trying a wider range of sports that may not have traditionally been accessible in their area.

Sport England has awarded £500,000 of National Lottery funding to UK charity Sport Inspired Open in a new window to help more than 9,000 children, young people and families live happier, healthier lives through sport.

The charity, which was set up in 2008, delivers programmes in places where children have the fewest opportunities, bringing together different parts of the community to create longerterm change.

Following one-day sports festivals – events that give young people the opportunity to try a range of activities like parkour, martial arts and fencing – regular and sustainable sports programmes are set up in schools. Mike Diaper, Sport England’s executive director of children and young people, said: “The project will focus on the communities who are most in need, working with local schools, sport clubs and community partners to provide more opportunities for local young people to access sport or physical activity.

“The focus will be on celebrating the joy of taking part. Our research shows that enjoyment above competence is the main driver in children getting and staying active.”

Sport England

Planning your new school playground

There are several factors that you will need to consider when planning for your new school playground, as the specialists at Wicksteed explain.

Before looking into play equipment for your school however it is always best to have a clear picture of the space you have available and your budget.

Play is integral for a child’s development and can improve cognitive ability and problemsolving skills. Play is also a great way to get children more creative, so the benefits of getting outdoors at break time go far beyond health and fitness!

Playing outdoors on playground equipment enables children to build essential communication that will also serve them well in the classroom.

Wicksteed offers a fantastic range of playground products that are guaranteed to liven up even the smallest of outdoor spaces. For smaller school playgrounds it’s important to maximise your space. Use of educational play panels or smaller trim trail items can add lots of play value with little need for huge amounts of space. Children can learn through play with our caterpillar counter panel or have fun in groups with the Simon Says interactive panel.

Check out the Toddler section of the Wicksteed website for more info about these products and many more.

When looking at play products for larger playgrounds it’s important to remember that you will need surfacing for any bigger pieces of equipment such as multiplay units, see-saws and swings. Wicksteed offers an array of safety surfacing types to suit any outdoor space. These include wet pour, safety grass, bonded rubber mulch and safety tiles.

For larger play areas it’s good to have a clear picture of what kind of material suits the site best. For more natural areas, timber products such as our range of timber play ships and climbers work well. For high traffic areas prone to the elements it may be best to look at some steel options like our Castle and Cloud Multi-Play ranges.

As children get older they seek to play on more challenging pieces of play equipment. Pushing the boundaries with a real sense of

adventure in your playground can make all the difference between boredom and enjoyment.

At Wicksteed we are firm believers that play should be for all. Our sensory and inclusive play products provide fun, education and challenge for children of all abilities. Sensory play is a vital ingredient in any good play area and incorporating a good mixture of textures, sounds and experiences will guarantee enjoyment for all.

Our in house UK production facility allows us to offer a range of bespoke products for your school playground. Wicksteed is the only company in the UK that can produce bespoke solutions at our manufacturing facility in the UK thanks to our new CNC Router. School names, badges and mottos are a small sample of the things we can add to our play products. Ask us more about our bespoke play product facilities.

Being a UK manufacturer means that our customers spend less time waiting and more time playing. We are one of the only play companies to offer full aftercare service to all of our customers and all parts and spares are held at our headquarters in Kettering.

Wicksteed

Creating inspiring play opportunities

Playinnovation create inspiring educational sports areas with the WOW factor! Engaging your schools and communities by developing innovative Family Inclusive sports areas. (FISA)

Working closely and successfully with pupils, Headteachers and staff of a West London School, Playinnovation designed a playground suitable for all the

needs and abilities for pupils of this successful purpose-built community special school.

Using only the highest quality materials and most exclusive equipment on the market, Playinnovation ™ created one of the most unique school playgrounds in London. Colourful, vibrant and jam packed with opportunities for

physical and mental activity, featuring Playinnovation’s new ‘Hype Courts’ Basketball goals, table tennis tables, patented educational games walls such as Street Pool, traverse walls and gym equipment from TGOGC, this space is fully set for activation.

Playinnovation

The Football Association Sutu

The second Football Association Sutu has been installed into an existing MUGA in Manchester, Platt Fields.

This Sutu was fully funded by Sport England who is working in partnership with ourselves and The FA to provide communities with free access to interactive community play spaces, promoting communities to be more active.

Within the first 16 days the Sutu was being played for up to 5 hours a day with a total of 20 hours and

Versatility of SterlingOSB Zero transforms i-Jump

i-Jump is Mansfield’s popular trampoline park frequented by great numbers of ecstatic children and their accompanying guardians.

When designing the interior, i-Jump needed to create a practical and easily managed space while still being fun. In order to achieve this, i-Jump has covered the walls using Norbord’s revered SterlingOSB Zero.

Sterling OSB Zero is a precision engineered wood panel product that is suitable for use across a great range of construction projects. It is the UK’s only manufactured OSB that doesn’t contain any added formaldehyde making this an ideal choice for somewhere like i-Jump.

Stephi Grayson iJump’s Operations Manager has described the versatility of SterlingOSB Zero as one of its most unique features.

This has allowed the company to personalise the boards by adding their own vinyls and company logos without incurring significant costs. The effect is a decorative and individual interior that isn’t just a hit with Stephi. The trampoline park’s choice to opt for SterlingOSB Zero has been met with “lots of complimentary comments” from iJump’s many visitors.

With its high adrenaline atmosphere i-Jump has benefitted greatly from the use of a material that Stephi has described as “totally self sufficient and effective”. Now that the decoration itself is completed Stephi, her colleagues and all their enthusiastic customers can simply enjoy the inviting appearance of the park without having to worry about degradation and upkeep.

Norbord

that is despite one of the wettest November’s on record! This Sutu is part of a larger scheme with The Football Association and Sport England. The first

Sutu within this scheme was installed at Lowfield Park in Sheffield.

Jupiter Play

Playrite ‘Ace it’ for Tennis Word with Matchplay 2

Tennis World have recently upgraded their playing surfaces at their state-of-the-art facility in Middlesbrough.

In the past Tennis World has served up several Wimbledon aces, now Middlesbrough’s largest independent tennis club has had its first makeover in 30 years.

In 2018 Tennis World was given a six-figure “new lease of life” with world-standard indoor and outdoor courts. Tennis World is unique in having 4 indoor and 6 outdoor courts.

The recent refurbishment would enable a brand-new suite of playing surfaces to be installed delivering both top

performance and playability. In providing new courts the choice of playing surfaces where the general public and future champions could practice and compete on would be crucial.

Tennis World would ultimately choose Yorkshire-based Playrite to supply their Matchplay 2 product to meet and surpass their stringent requirements.

Playrite

UK’s first special Cruyff Court

The opening of the first Special Cruyff Court in England took place this week at Dorothy Goodman School, Hinkley.

This Special Cruyff Court, in part developed by Sutcliffe Play, is accessible to all supporting inclusion of children and young people with disabilities.

It will enable children and young people to practise all kinds of sport and physical activities as well as have an active role in organising these activities.

Sutcliffe Play is excited to be involved with this project and it was wonderful to see so many pupils and teachers enjoying the opening, even in the rain.

Sutcliffe Play

Flexi-Sport Zones offers a variety of options

These include specific ‘exercise station’ activities (such as challenges to touch your toes, run on the spot, hop on one leg or balance on one leg, as well as to do star jumps, squats and calf lifts), goals for football, holes for golf, cricket stumps and athletics markers).

The Playforce Flexi-Sport Zone scheme is the perfect solution to meet the challenge of catering for a group of pupils with different tastes and requirements.

Flexi-Sport Zone creates a flexible sports area, perfect for PE lessons and play time. It’s specifically designed for primary school children so they can try a range of sports and activities.

It can be fitted to any space and individual panels can be chosen and fitted together in whatever formation you like, to create a space that works for all size plots of land. It’s ideal for schools without the space for a full MUGA!

Panels are double sided and different colours, as well as featuring different images and activities.

You can even include panels with crowd pictures, to cheer your young athletes on!

Flexi-Sport Zone’s is modular and flexible. Best of all, with 29 different panels, you can build your collection of panels up over time as well as switching them and rotating them to create different activities. There are hundreds of possible combinations.

Playforce

The Revolution has arrived

MH Goals are proud to present our new lift and lower Revolution portable goal.

With its 360° swivel wheel it’s been designed to go through narrow gates and accesses while still having the ability to be used on all playing surfaces.

The new Revolution goal is packed with features and has been designed not just for the top-flight clubs, but also for use at every level of the game. The goal itself is manufactured from our new reinforced aluminium section which is able to accommodate the lift and lower Revolution 360° wheels.

The in-line Revolution 360� wheel is able to lift the goal 60mm off the ground and due to its all-terrain solid wheels it can easily be used not only on synthetic surfaces, but also the most challenging grass pitches.

The wheel mechanism is a triumph of simple yet effective design that enables the user to quickly lift and lower the goal with just a turn of the Revolution handle. What’s more this goal can also be used with our internal weight system, removing the need for any external anchorage.

Like all of our aluminium goals the Revolution will use our Hold Fast net hook system ensuring your net stays safe, neat and tidy.

Matthew Harrod, Sales Director of MH Goals said: “The Revolution goal has been in development since 2018 and we’re delighted to now take the wraps off our first prototypes.

Our overall aim for this 360° goal has been to design something that is just as usable on a synthetic pitch as a grass pitch, giving the user total flexibility.”

BTME 2020 was the first public outing for the lift and lower Revolution goal with further testing and development taking place at a number of tabletopping Premier League clubs over the next few months.

The Revolution will be available in all sizes from full sized to 5 a side, with the first production ready models ready for purchase in the spring.

The lift and lower Revolution is protected by Design Right No. 6081309 and Patent Pending No: GB1812267.1 (2018).

BlueBird takes maiden flight in Harrogate

Launching the future of turf care equipment to an audience of turf managers, golf club owners and decision makers at BTME - BlueBird’s new and exclusive range of 125v battery powered machines designed and built for professionals took centre stage on the stand.

The initial range includes an 18” and 22” power rake, a 17.5” and 19” aerator and a 20” hover mower.

The hover mower is set to change the way golf courses are maintained, with a best in class centre of gravity making manoeuvrability on hills and around bunker edges a breeze; ultimately eliminating inefficiencies with an electric performance equal to petrol.

The lower noise level of the 125v Lithium-ion range allows you to continue to work during noise restricted times and in noise restricted areas.

Other key advantages include no exhaust fumes or odour when operating, no fuel costs, low maintenance, reduced downtime, significantly improved productivity and profitability and the machines are more environmentally friendly.

“We were very pleased and encouraged by the interest in

BlueBird at BTME. The 125v hover mower stole the show but the whole range of Lithiumion and petrol- powered equipment saw a great deal of interest throughout the three days.” commented Phil Noble, Divisional Sales Manager, Lawn and Garden, E P Barrus.

BlueBird, supported by E P

Barrus, provides commercial, rental and residential users with some of the most reliable turf care power equipment in the industry- including aerators, power rakes, overseeders, sod cutters, stump grinders and hover mowers.

EP Barrus

Kioti UK enjoys a “cracking” #BTME2020

The crowds at Harrogate were impressed with the Kioti models on display.

Patrick Desmond General Manager for Kioti UK, said: “Customers wanted to discuss their requirements and confirm that the high specifications available for the Kioti tractors met their expectations.

“Most conversations included reference to the wide range of specialist tyres available from Kioti UK and the plans that are already in hand for the transition to the Stage V engine regulations.

“Kioti UK offer a vast range of turf and other tyres. With the current saturated

ground conditions, the ability to get across the ground without excess damage and consolidation is an important consideration. That’s where Kioti UK can assist and are more than happy to advise and recommend a solution.

“The engine upgrade to stage V is well in hand. All the models, where relevant, in the Kioti range, if not already upgraded will be Stage V compatible by the third quarter 2020.

“We have two distinct advantages over most of our competitors. The first is that we already have 7 years of experience with environmental engines using DPF and secondly we can still order and produce

mid horse power tractors with the existing lower priced Stage 3a engines until the end of April. These units will obviously

be offered at the right money compared Stage V models.”

Headland Amenity launch Ascoflex and PPT114

BTME 2020 saw the introduction of two new products into the Headland Amenity plant health range – Ascoflex Plus and Ascoflex 15. In addition, they introduced PPT114 – a product to further compliment their non-pesticidal disease management strategy.

Ascoflex is a new, UK-sourced extract derived from Knotted Wrack Seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum). The Ascoflex manufacturing process offers the optimum extraction of bioactive compounds – the important bits that provide growth stimulation and stress tolerance.

Ascoflex differs from many competitors in declaring actual content of polysaccharide and plant growth substances. In addition to the bioactive Seaweed extract, Ascoflex

Plus features ‘ProactinEX’, a patented, plant-derived biostimulant package containing L-form amino acids, B-Complex vitamins and antioxidants.

Ascoflex 15 is a straight seaweed extract and is suitable for applications on larger, outfield areas. Following on from the highly successful introduction of Mantle at BTME 2019, PPT114 is a new soluble, micronutrient formulation featuring Manganese, Zinc and Copper. It has been developed to increase the efficacy of plant-health applications, helping to minimise Microdochium nivale infection.

In addition, the incorporation of two different sources of iron is designed to maximise winter colour when used in a tank mix.

Headland

Kioti UK

MH Goals

Times have changed. So have tools. And our new Professional-X range is all the proof you need. Take the EGO Power+ blower. It’s powered by the most technologically advanced, petrol-matching, Lithium-ion battery system out there. It’s built tough to withstand all-day use in any weather. Its impressive airflow beats every other handheld blower on the market, and while it packs all the power of petrol, it’s significantly quieter, vibrates less and gives off zero emissions.

From driver to manager

Taking the driver away from the mower seat can signuficanlty increase safety and convenience. Remote control mowers offer the ability to tackle jobs in awkward locations that could post a risk to the operator, while robots are proving that they can mow quickly and stealthily at unsocial hours, perfect for busy venues. Jane Carley looks at developments.

McConnel has expanded its Robocut range with the launch of the Robocut RC28, a mower for fine turf applications where a light footprint and minimal surface disturbance is paramount.

Designed, developed and manufactured by the company, the all-new Robocut RC28 is now in full production.

Suitable for tackling slopes of up to 55 degrees, the Robocut RC28 weighs less than 500kg fuelled up and ready to mow. It is equipped with a bidirectional 1.10m mulching for a high quality cut and features automatic tracking for straight mowing on lateral slopes.

Operated by full proportional remote control at distances of up to 150m, the Robocut RC28 can work at speeds up to 7kph with mowing heights of 30180mm. Powered by a 28hp fuel-injected Vanguard petrol engine, electric track motors and deck raise/lower eliminate the use of hydraulics and this advanced mower is GPSenabled and Autosteer-ready.

The company has also introduced an extendable track width option for its Robocut RC56 and RC75 all-terrain remote-control power units, which can be set to extend just one track.

In addition, the company offers an automated system which can be set to automatically extend the track on the lowest side of the machine in work without compromising the overall width of the machine.

Track width is from 1,300 to 1,800mm and each track can be independently extended by up to 250mm per side. The tracks can be adjusted on the move via the Robocut remote control.

“Our existing Robocut already delivers exceptional side slope stability, with a safe working angle of up to 55 degrees”, says Wayne Brown, McConnel Marketing Manager.

“The extendable track option meets the demands of users routinely operating in extreme terrain, a wider track width enabling the operator to work with increased confidence. Although the safe working angle across a slope is unchanged, a Robocut with both tracks opened out to a maximum width of 1,800mm will offer exceptional stability.”

Bomford Turner offers a full range of Flailbot remote controlled mowers with engines from 23-70hp, suitable for use at a working angle up to 55deg.

Joysticks on the remote control unit provide precise control of forward or reverse track speeds from 0-7kph and real-time critical machine data, including incline, altitude and speed, is fed to a visual display on the controller.

When working on slopes, the operator can adjust the offset needed to maintain direction and a service assistant function offers routine maintenance alerts and diagnostics.

The engine has a Flexxaire fan to ensure a safe operating temperature in all conditions; in reverse operation, debris is blown clear from the engine. To protect the engine, bearings and components, a tough underbody skin is structurally integrated into the frame, preventing ingress of debris, fragments and grit.

A robust roll bar, integrated into the chassis, can also be used to hoist the vehicle if needed and in addition to a four-point attachment system for lifting, the frame includes front and rear fastening systems for optional tools and equipment.

Flailbot can be fitted with standard rubber tracks to limit pressure on the ground; high grip rubber for mixed soils and, for extreme slopes, steellinked tracks with inserts and additional studs.

Bomford specialist Rhys Thomas explains that the Original Flailbot is still a best-seller, combining a 40hp industrial Perkins diesel engine with the versatility offered by a wide range of attachments, from flail and rotary mowers to a trencher and stump grinder and even a sprayer.

“This machine is popular with everyone from National Parks to local authorities and private contractors who use it year round, rather than just for mowing, and it offers plenty of capacity and power.”

He adds that Flailbot Compact weighs in at 300kg less, but also features the 40hp Perkins industrial powerplant, offering a high power to weight ratio.

“The Compact is more commonly used for grass cutting, but its smaller size means that a contractor can get it on a trailer with other mowers and equipment to tackle a range of jobs during the day.”

The 50hp Flailbot Extra is the choice for forestry work and can be supplied with attachments including a heavy duty forestry flail in working widths up to 1.8m, he points out.

Kilworth Machinery has added the Green Climber LV800 to its range, which can power heavy duty attachments such as a snow blower, stump grinder or woodchipper in addition to forestry mulchers and mowers.

“The LV800 is powered by a Kohler KDi turbo intercooled diesel engine which produces 75hp and 300Nm of torque, allowing the hydraulic system to run at 350 bar with 98 litres/ min of flow and giving maximum power at the flail or mulcher head,” explains managing director Mark Parnham.

“A Cleanfix reversible fan is fitted to the engine to prevent blocking of the radiator. The engine drives four integrated hydraulic pumps which in turn drive the heavy duty track units, the attachment and the auxiliary services.”

The LV800 will work on slopes up to 60 degrees, with an operator positioned in a safe place up to 150m away. Track width is adjustable hydraulically from the remote control unit so that the stability of the machine can be adjusted according to the slope.

Mark adds: “The suspension system on the attachment mounting plate not only reduces stress on the mulcher or flail but also transfers some weight onto the tracks to assist with grip on slopes. The attachment plate also incorporates a hydraulic side shift to allow the operator to guide the flail tight up to hedges, trees and buildings.”

“The radio control system incorporates a switch to reverse the direction of operation, allowing use of rear mounted equipment, useful when fitting attachments such as a power harrow as the machine needs to run backwards in this case.

“A complete range of attachments are available for the LV800 including flail mowers, fixed tooth forestry mulchers, stump grinders, rotary harrows/seeders & tillers, trenchers and sprayers.”

Kilworth also offers the more compact XRot dedicated mower, which weighs in at just 300kg and has a cut width of 80cm.

McConnel

Flashing LEDs and headlights ensure high visibility during operation. To reduce the risk of flying debris when reverse rotation is selected, the cutting head’s front hood is held closed by an electronic interlock and pressure sensors electronically control the flail head float via lift rams.

Kilworth Machinery

Simon Tullet Machinery

Case Study

Robot mowers

Stihl has a dedicated ‘test garden’ for its iMow robotic range at its Kufstein, Austria, facility, where the ability of the mowers to handle obstacles and varied terrain is evaluated.

In common with other robotic solutions, iMow is based at a mains-powered docking station which charges its onboard battery and is controlled in conjunction with a perimeter wire. Mowing takes place in a random pattern, little and often, to encourage lateral growth and all clippings are recycled.

The two iMow ranges, for up to 1000sqm and 1000-5000sqm include versions with a communication module which allows the operator to direct the mower to charge, mow or alter its mowing pattern via an app.

In an awkward-shaped garden, altering the pre-determined mowing pattern can improve mowing coverage.

Other functions of the app include displaying an error code if the perimeter wire is damaged and locating the area of damage. Technology extends to a rain sensor on the hood which will halt the mowing programme in adverse weather

and reset to mow the next day; some models can also use weather data to determine the mowing programme.

Stihl has also been developing the autonomous operation of its machines in conjunction with leading ‘smart technology’ companies. By connecting to a phone app, the operator can use a smart watch to instruct iMow to start mowing, mow the perimeter edge or return to the dock, and to study the mower’s active time.

Amazon’s Alexa smart speaker can also be used to check the mower status, start mowing or send to the dock, while the German Inogy Smarthome system integrates the mower with a home technology system, with functions including closing exterior doors before iMow is started to exclude children and pets from the area to be cut.

Many of these developments are targeted at the homeowner market, but Stihl sales and marketing manager Paul Hicks reports strong interest in the iMow for commercial situations such as hotels, hospitals and schools, where silent, convenient mowing has obvious attractions.

“The demand is certainly there – we have multiple installations up and running. For commercial use, the iMow team are looking at a ‘swarm’ concept where a number of small robot mowers would replace a larger ride-on or pedestrian unit,” he explains.

“At a school, for example, the groundsman could secure the location and the swarm of mowers could be deployed to cut a playing field during a brief break in the timetable; we have the advantage that iMow is faster than most so needs less time to get the mowing done.”

Husqvarna’s Automower 500 Series is a range of robotic mowers specifically developed for the needs of commercial customers. Mowers produce no direct emissions and are near silent making them ideal for night time operation or in noise sensitive areas, says Husqvarna.

Micro-clippings are recycled back into the soil, improving grass quality whilst maintaining a consistent grass length throughout the growing season.

With a choice of 12 or 16hp engines, the XRot can cut in reverse, avoiding the need to turn at the end of a run and eliminating scrubbing on turf.

STM offers the RoboFlail tracked remote control machines in four models. The Mini gives a 50cm cut using an underslung rotary deck, and is powered by a 5.5hp Briggs and Stratton motor to drive the tracks via 24v 600w motors.

It is designed for limited access areas and equally capable of coping with hazardous terrain. Two of these have just gone out for a Housing Services contract with problematic terrain.

RoboFlail

has a 1.2m cut underslung STM deck for cutting in either direction, while the RoboFlail One Diesel comes with an underslung rough cut flail deck.

The facility for attaching out front mounted PTO-driven units comes with the 38hp diesel powered RoboFlail Vario.

A RoboFlail One Petrol was sold during 2019 to a customer for contracts including maintaining grass-roofed Nissen huts on a WW2 airfield.

These machines are also very popular for reservoir use because of the steep angles involved.

with

The 500 Series robotic mowers come with Husqvarna Fleet Services built-in. Performance, settings, locations and machine health of a fleet of Husqvarna robotic mowers can be tracked from anywhere using the software solution.

Multiple machines can be used to allow much larger areas to be maintained. Capable of covering areas up to 3500sqm, the Automower 535 AWD handles tough terrain and inclines of up to 70%.

The all-wheel-drive system allows challenging green

spaces that were previously difficult or impractical to manage to be maintained safely, efficiently and to a very high standard.

Automower Connect and offers remote control and surveillance of the robotic mower from iOS, PC, or tablet.

For smaller areas or those with lots of complexity, the Automower 520 covers up to 2200sqm and is able to handle slopes up to a 45%.

GPS-assisted navigation and a weather timer ensures uniform coverage of complex green spaces.

Designed for larger green spaces of up to 5000sqm, the Automower 550 handles all types of terrain and slopes up to 45% incline.

The machine is ideally suited to complex areas and the GPSassisted navigation ensures optimum area coverage.

One Petrol

Lighter in weight than larger outfront remote control machines on the market and with new deeper profile herringbone tracks designed to minimise slipping in wet conditions, STM reports a steady rise in sales of this model in recent months.

The RoboFlail One Petrol comes with a UK-built three-blade rotary deck slung directly underneath; this makes for a compact design that’s useful for transporting and planning cutting patterns and can be used for grass 60cm tall, but can also be relied on to leave a neat regular cut down to 7cm, says STM

RoboFlail mowers can be operated from up to 300m distance via their control box. Launched at Saltex, Ryetec’s new Robofox offers heavy duty commercial flail mowing capability in a compact, tracked, self-propelled power unit, with full remote control, able to operate on steep banks up to 55deg with zero emissions.

The Robofox is available as the Electra, a fully electric battery powered machine able to operate for up to three hours on a single charge, with the possibility to change batteries or recharge in as little as two hours.

It can also be supplied as a hybrid version with a 28hp petrol engine to drive the flail deck whilst still retaining the electric track drive system of the Electra. Completely

free of any oil-based systems, the Robofox Electra can operate in ecologically sensitive areas including waterways without risk of contamination, and thanks to the large rubber tracks, with minimal disturbance on soft ground.

A 150m range remote control system means the machine can operate in situations too dangerous for manned machinery, i.e. close to busy highways or on river banks while the operator keeps a safe distance away in full control.

At 560kg and just over 2m long Robofox can also be transported easily from site to site with a pick-up or small trailer.The Deltrak Edition 15 is a celebration of the15 years Irus has spent developing remote controlled tool carriers and mowers.

Compact dimensions and its relatively low weight, in conjunction with the hydraulically extendable Delta crawler tracks from 1300mm to 1700mm make the Deltrak Edition 15 ideal for use on steep slopes and inaccessible areas.

The Delta crawler track with auto hydraulic adjustment also enables a quick, tool-free track change and makes cleaning and maintenance in the chassis area easier, while the engine and hydraulic cooling are equipped with an automatic self-cleaning function.

With 30% higher torque, the Edition 15 closes the gap between Deltrak 2.5 and the Twin. With a chassis made from ThyssenKrupp specialist steel, the basic machine weighs just over 1000kg and is powered by a Kubota 48hp engine, with hydraulic output of 60 litres per minute at 300 bar for optimum performance.

Mowing on steep and difficult terrain has always been a challenge for the machine operator and the AS 940 and AS 940 XL ride on brushcutters, distributed by PSD Groundcare have been especially developed for this application.

AS Motor now offers the option to convert this machine to remote control when required, such as

for steep terrain, loose substrate, mowing under trees and bushes, along hedges and even around wasp nests.

Equipped with a 27hp engine, four-wheel drive, limited-slip differential and cross blade, the AS 940 easily mows dense, high grass and undergrowth on demanding terrain. Features include a professional remote control unit with 300m range which offers adjustment of the cutting height, engine on/off function, mower deck on-off switch and steering.

The maximum incline that can be tackled in remote control operation is 33deg, compared to 21deg for ride-on operation. The remote also offers an emergency stop function.

Case Study

All-round workhorse

RSM Maintenance purchased a RC56 Robocut primarily for slope mowing alongside waterways and highways throughout Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Yorkshire. However, the company has also utilised the power-plant in other key areas of the business to improve safety and efficiency.

In addition to the vegetation maintenance arm of the business, the company also undertakes the installation and maintenance of footbridges along public rights-of-way and footpaths throughout Lincolnshire.

This inevitably involves the handling of heavy build material in areas where the terrain can be challenging, and access limited.

A solution was found in the form of a Robocut-mounted HYVA crane attachment with 1,000kg lift capacity and 6.5m reach.

“We regularly need to position 8 to 10m long beams across waterways, by using the Robocut and crane attachment, we now have a machine that can access these sites.

“Once in place, the Robocut crane eliminates the need for hazardous manual handling and removes personnel from the danger zone,” Robert Minnitt, Managing Director of RSM Maintenance comments.

Grass reseeding alongside waterways and steep slopes is another duty where the Robocut is boasting efficiency and safety for RSM Maintenance.

“We have also fitted a harrow attachment with GPS controlled seeder unit which does a great job of quickly and efficiently reinstating damaged turf caused when maintenance work carrying out by heavy plant,” he adds.

Mow difficult terrain safely. For 60 years AS-Motor has been working continuously on new technologies and the systematic further development of its mowers. We are proud to present this unique mower to our customers, the AS 940 Sherpa 4WD RC the world’s first ride-on mower with remote control. For significantly more safety and convenience on steep slopes, on difficult terrain, on areas that are difficult to access, and wherever mowing was previously too difficult.

Whether in manual operation or remote controlled, with the AS 940 Sherpa 4WD RC you can mow high grass and steep slopes conveniently, safely and economically.

Irus Loxston

AS Motor

Ryetech

Flail mowers provide the solution for high grass and verges

Flail mowers offer a high quality, robust solution for mowing high grass, slopes, ditches, shrubbery and undergrowth – difficult tasks require a special solution. The flexibly mounted Y-flails avoid hidden objects.

Even high-grass is cut into small pieces which remain on the lawn as mulch and quickly disappear while fertilising the soil. Flail mowers are perfectly suited for meadows, parks & roadside verges – even on slopes.

German manufacturer AS Motor offer a range of Flail mowers, available in the UK from PSD Groundscare:

• AS 701: 70cm cutting width, 20 x 3mm thick Y-flails for sustainable mulching. Single wheel steering brake

• AS 901: 90cm cutting width, 26 x 3mm thick hard-wearing back to back flails, fitted with

twin wheels as standard.

Comfortable manoeuvring is made possible through the single-wheel steering, braking clutch system and a finely staged 5-speed manual transmission with differential lock.

• AS 1040 YAK 4WD: Ride-On with 100cm cutting width, offering a superior alternative to rotary mowing. The surfing mower deck adapts to rough and uneven terrain and the permanent 4WD with on-demand limited slip differential for the rear axle offers maximum stability.

In addition innovative German manufacturer Koppl also offer a range of powerful power units with an array of attachments including the robust flail cutting unit ranging in size from 80cm – 140cm.

PSD Groundscare

Razorback expand reach mower range with new telescopic model

Razorback have recently launched their 6.8 metre telescopic model to the AutoLevel range which also includes a 5.5 metre reach machine.

Featuring self-levelling Co-Pilot technology, the Auto-Level 680 reach mower has been designed to reduce operator fatigue, increase productivity and reduce cost.

Razorback’s Auto-Level CoPilot technology ensures that the main frame of the machine remains level at all times,

irrespective of the tractor angle in relation to undulating ground. Subsequently, the requirement to make manual adjustments to account for the unevenness of the terrain is signifi cantly reduced, making for a much easier, trouble-free operation.

The high-end specification is fi tted with the Auto-Level Co-Pilot device, electronic proportional controls and a fully independent hydraulic system with oil cooler as standard.

Razorback

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• The compact dimensions and its relative low weight, in conjunction with the hydraulically extendable DELTA crawler trak, make the DELTRAK EDITION 15 unbeatable on extreme steep slopes and in very inaccessible areas.

• The unique DELTA caterpillar drive also allows a fast, tool-free Caterpillars change and facilitates cleaning and Maintenance in the chassis area.

• Engine and hydraulic cooling are with one equipped with automatic cleaning function.

• With 30% higher torque closes the EDITION 15 the gap between DELTRAK 2.5 and the TWIN.

A STIGA sweeper is the must-have ‘Cleaner’. The perfect accessory for any season – great for cleaning footpaths, lawns and many outdoor areas.

Our extensive line-up includes simple but effective motorless pushtype machines as well as high performance self-propelled petrol models – we are confident we have a sweeper to suit your needs and your budget.

Working-widths range from a compact and easy to manage 55cm on the smallest hand-push sweeper, through to an expansive and highly productive 80cm on the largest petrol-powered unit. www.stigalawnmowers.co.uk

PSD Groundscare, a leading distributor of professional groundscare machinery have an exciting range of vacuums, blowers & sweepers from innovative European manufacturers ELIET and Koppl.

Leading Belgium manufacturer ELIET have developed a range of vacuums & blowers that includes leaf blowers and truckloaders.

Innovative German manufacturer Koppl provide a range of multiattachment machines that can be fitted to a power unit with a wide range of attachments to choose from including snow-blowers and sweepers.

The wonderful advantage of the Koppl range is the power unit can be used all year round with attachments to suit the season.

PSD Groundscare

Versatility the key with Ventrac

Demonstrating its versatility, the Ventrac 4500 compact tractor has a selection of brushes that are ideal for the landscaper, estate manager or contracting business.

Ventrac’s Power Broom attachment can be hydraulically angled left or right and lifted up or down, all from the seat of the tractor.

Mind-blowing garden machinery

Makita has added a new range of products to its cordless garden machinery line up, including the DUB184Z Brushless Blower LXT.

Powered by one Makita 18V battery, the cordless blower will get the job done with ease, offering more flexibility for operators.

Suitable for maintenance staff and landscapers, the new, powerful, 52.1 m/s air speed, cordless blower comes with variable speed control, constant speed control, and a cruise

control feature that allows users to set the desired air speed - eliminating the need to hold the trigger, providing more user comfort over long periods.

The DUB184Z Brushless Blower LXT also benefits from an ergonomic design, with an optimum grip-to-frame angle that creates the ideal nozzle to ground angle, for efficient and comfortable operation.

In addition, the machine is incredibly lightweight, with a weight of just 3kg, even with the 18V Lithium-Ion battery

attached, enabling use for extended periods of time.

The machine also uses Makita’s Extreme Protection Technology (XPT™), which provides increased resistance to moisture and water droplets - making this tool suitable and durable for year round use in outdoor environments.

“Garden machinery is often thought of as being heavy duty, and as a result, can make grounds or garden maintenance seem a much more arduous task,” says Mark Earles, Business

A self-levelling feature keeps the broom horizontal at all times, and the nylon bristles can be changed in just a few minutes.

Price Turfcare

ECHO’s most powerful handheld blower

ECHO have introduced their most powerful handheld power blower to date.

The PB-2620 is part of the ECHO X Series of best-inclass products, designed to be industry-leading in terms of power and performance.

Featuring a 25.4cc twostroke engine with an output of 0.91kW and producing a maximum airspeed of 80.5m/ sec when using the flat nozzle, the PB-2620 is, say ECHO, the most powerful handheld blower in its class. More than enough for clearing wet leaves and heavier debris.

The premium-grade ECHO engine and dry weight of 4.4kg combine to give an excellent power to weight ratio.

Along with the power comes precision and comfort in the way the blower is designed. A secondary handle improves manoeuvrability and the ergonomically grouped controls, including a throttle with ‘cruise control’, are easy to reach.

The throttle can be locked at a variety of settings for ease of use and added operator comfort. The overall design reduces the gyro effect on the wrist, adding another factor in lessening operator fatigue.

This is a power blower designed for professionals who need to be able to rely on their tools day in, day out and achieve maximum productivity. To ensure this, all X Series products are tested in the most extreme conditions, say ECHO, and the PB-2620 is packed with the most advanced features.

The rubber grip and counterweight are designed for increased comfort and reduced vibration. A tool-less air fi lter cover allows easy access for changing the air filter, making a further contribution to reduced downtime and increased productivity. ECHO state their tools are hardworking, tough and dependable and they carry a two-year professional or fi ve-year domestic warranty to support this.

ECHO

Development Manager for garden machinery at Makita. “We wanted to dispel this and make tasks easier for a range of end users, from landscapers to homeowners. Therefore, our cordless DUB184Z Brushless Blower is the ultimate in convenience and comfort to use.

“Powered by a single 18V Makita battery, the machine also benefits from a brushless motor, which means a significantly longer lifespan of the machine and longer battery life.”

An electric actuator also allows the operator to adjust the speed and direction of the broom rotation, maximizing its effectiveness.

Makita

Little Wonder Optimax blowers are big on performance A clean sweep for pitches

Since 1922 professionals have relied on the performance and long-lasting durability of Little Wonder landscaping and debris management equipment.

As a professional landscaper you need your equipment to be able to perform the toughest of jobs – our powerful equipment will stand up to your needs, season, after season.

The Optimax maximum output blowers, with an air speed of up to 160mph are perfect for moving leaves, debris and standing water – or for any job that requires hurricane-force air with air volume of up to 2530 cfm.

Powered by Honda engines, all models feature a split-stream air deflector controlled by the operator, which minimises

blow-back, you’ll only have to go over the area once. Operators comfort comes in the form of adjustable, ergonomic handles with anti-vibration grip. The housing is durable heavy gauge steel – for strength and durability.

Clogging is prevented as the curved aerodynamic inlet draws air in smoothly for constant power, even if leaves are sucked in.

Add a transport bracket for convenient tie-down, a lift handle for easy lifting in and out of your van and an industryleading warranty and you’ll see why Optimax is the only blower you’ll need, available in both push and self-propelled models.

EP Barrus

Honda Leaf Blower HHB36AXB

For 2020, Honda will introduce an electrified, premium cordless Lawn & Garden handheld range. This includes an all-new leaf blower, which provides powerful performance courtesy of a brushless EC motor that draws power from a – 4Ah, 6Ah or 9Ah – highperformance battery.

As powerful as its petrol equivalent, the leaf blower

is versatile too, thanks to an interchangeable flat and round nozzle as standard. Wellbalanced to keep the nose towards the ground, the leaf blower also has fully-variable speed control that allows the operator to work at their own pace to best suit the task and environment.

Furthermore, the ergonomic design situates the battery in

a padded and adjustable waist belt. Therefore, the new unit weighs in at just 2.6kg without the battery.

Noise level is a low 79dB(A) and the new blower puts out a powerful air volume of up to 860m³ per hour, with an air speed of up to 68 metres per second.

The leaf blower’s RRP is £580, including the 4Ah battery and charger, and will be available through authorised Honda dealers and via the online Honda Store from March 2020, along with the rest of the Lawn & Garden handheld range.

Honda

Sweeping detritus from your artificial pitch is one of the most important regular maintenance tasks you can perform. If left on the pitch, leaves and other organic debris will begin to decompose and become a nutrient rich soil.

This soil will look unsightly, but worse it will have two very negative effects on the playing surface:

1. It will block up the surface drainage, leading to retained moisture and surface water.

2. It provides a nice platform for moss and other weeds to grow on the surface.

A Kersten Sweeper is a simple way to keep the surface detritus free.

Kersten

Syn-Pro a clean sweep at Colliers Park

The Syn-Pro SSS1000 tractor mounted rotary brush sweeper by SISIS is providing Dylan Thompson, grounds maintenance manager, at Colliers Park, with a certain peace of mind.

Welsh football recently received a boost after a new training and development centre was opened in Wrexham. In a collaboration between the FAW and Glyndwr University, Colliers Park in Gresford boasts state-of-the-art facilities in a bid to promote, develop and protect football in Wales.

The impressive footballing centre also features a brand-new synthetic pitch which is kept in immaculate condition by the SISIS SSS1000 – a machine which instantly impressed Dylan.

“We trialled the SSS1000 before we purchased it and the amount it cleaned up the pitch was crazy,” he said. “From the very start we

realised what a great tool it was and in those early weeks after installation it was fantastic at picking up loose fibres.”

The SISIS SSS1000 is a tractor mounted sweeper which can be pulled by any machine. The rotary brush has been designed for use on synthetic surfaces to remove surface debris, lift the carpet pile and redistribute sand or rubber crumb infill giving the surface maximum performance and extended life.

There are no tools required for the adjustment of the brush or the angle of the draw bar and to make storage easy the draw bar lifts to an upright position. With an aluminium hopper with stainless steel mesh, any infill that is collected when using the machine is returned back to the surface leaving it free from contamination of debris.

SISIS

Make sure your flail never fails with Tempest blades

Reesink Turfcare is extending its Toro genuine parts range to include Tempest flail blades to keep the UK’s flail mowers in the ultimate condition. While suited to all flail mowers, Tempest blades are certainly a match made in heaven for Toro’s LTF3000 triple flail mower.

Since its arrival in the UK the LTF3000 has been widely viewed as a game changer for meeting the increasing demands of maintaining short and long grass in the face of restricted budgets for groundscare customers.

And making sure this workhorse delivers consistently and

constantly are Toro’s exclusive Tempest blades.

The independent, dedicated flail cutter units of the LTF3000 are complex with numerous benefits.

They have 48 unique blades to enable a variable cutting width from 75cm (30ins) to 212cm (83.5ins) to be as productive in wide open areas as on narrow verges or in tight spaces.

The blades fold away with ease on impact of foreign objects and are easily and safely sharpened without needing to be removed, but should they

need to be replaced or removed that’s easy to do too.

The fine cut it delivers produces very little debris blow-out and post-cut clean-up operations with strimmers and blowers is reduced which is surely music to any groundsperson’s ears, resulting in far less grass clipping ‘clumping’ and hence their reputation for unrivalled performance in all types of grass and in all types of weather.

But Toro’s Tempest blades are a match for all of that, ensuring a flail’s advanced cutting system never fails says Michael Hampton, parts manager at

Reesink Turfcare: “It’s clear in the design of Tempest blades that Toro completely understands the needs for grounds customers to have the parts to match the machine.

“All Toro’s fl ail machines and the LT-F3000 in particular are built to always deliver even in the most challenging of environments, so it makes sense that the blade designed to suit the specifi c needs of a hardworking, heavy-duty flail is the uniquely crafted strong, durable and ergonomic Tempest.”

Reesink Turfcare

New flail mower launched by SCH Supplies

A flail mower is ideal for maintaining rough grassed areas where a conventional mower would get clogged up and struggle to cut.

The FM48 from SCH Supplies Ltd is a powerful, towed, long grass cutter with a working width of 1220mm (48”). A reliable 13Hp Honda engine with an electric start drives two ‘V’ belts and 42 cutting flails. These sharpened flails are easily replaceable to extend the lifetime of the machine.

As of 2020, the FM48s transport wheels situate at the rear of the machine, instead of the side. By mounting the transport wheels in the new position, the mower cuts closer to the edge and can squeeze through narrow pathways.

Mounted at the rear of the cutter is a one-piece roller. This roller is easily adjusted to fine-tune the cutting height and alleviates scalping by ensuring the flails lift above the highest peaks on uneven ground.

The safety of the operator is very much in mind when designing this type of machine. The throttle control and engine emergency stop switch are reached easily from the tractor seat.

The SCH FM42 Flail Mower is identical in many ways to the FM48, however instead of having a width of 48”, its width is (you’ve guessed it) 42”. This compact machine is ideal for towing vehicles with less pulling power and smaller areas to manage.

SCH Supplies

Woods launch the ‘Extreme Duty’ 15:70 Batwing

Woods has launched their extreme duty 15-foot (4.60 meter) Batwing, developed after more than 60 hours of interviews with operators.

The company say the BW15.70 can tame the harshest conditions including heavy brush and trees up to 11.4 cm in diameter and will cut more material in less time, making it the ideal option for crop shredding, contract farming, cooperatives, roadside and airport maintenance.

Simon Richard, UK Agent for the Woods range says: “The new, advanced double triple lipped oil seal technology, offered by the BW15.70 and developed for heavy duty jobs in the harshest of environments, offers the

customer a market leading six year warranty on gearboxes including seals, and greasable quick change blade pins are easy to reach through a panel on top of the deck which features a ‘clean deck’ system making it easier to maintain and clean.

“The BW15.70’s rounded wings and a curved leading edge, slice through tall brush, deflect impact and easily manoeuver close to obstacles. The fully baffled, 33 cm deep deck handles more material and distributes it evenly.

“The batwings flex 90° up, 22° down and steel tubes surrounding the perimeter absorb shocks and shrug off impact.”

Simon Richard

A cut above the rest

Makita, has added to its impressive range of cordless outdoor machinery with a new twin 18 Volt Brushless Brush Cutter designed to suit the needs of commercial operators and landscapers looking for a high powered, quiet and easy-to-use brush cutter.

The DUR368AZ Brushless LXT Brush Cutter is a cordless machine powered by two 18V Li-ion batteries. The advanced battery technology from Makita provides 36V of power and runtime without leaving the 18V platform, meaning operators can be confident the machine will endure longer tasks, enabling work over a wide area with just one charge.

Providing an excellent alternative to heavy powered machinery, which can be cumbersome to manoeuvre or access varied shrubland and undergrowth, the DUR368AZ Brush Cutter is a

lightweight tool that uses the same counter clockwise blade rotation as petrol brush cutters, making handling comfortable and familiar, for traditional users.

With user comfort in mind, the U-Handle grip has been designed so that the centre line of the handle bars stay aligned with the users centre of gravity, whilst the active-feedback technology provides extra protection for the user– when the metal blade hits a solid object such as a tree stump or fence, the sudden decrease in rpm triggers the brake, stopping kickback occurring.

Users can select the desired speed from three variants on the LED display and in areas of dense high grass or heavy brushwood, the reverse switch makes dealing with any tangled grass clippings easy, by slowly reversing the rotation of the cutting tool.

Makita

Better Safe Than Sorry

Working beyond the limits of equipment on steep inclines could be a thing of the past following the introduction of Tiltmaster to the UK groundcare sector. The three different models available can be quickly fitted to any machine providing a constant supply of working angle information to ensure the operator stays working safely within their machines capabilities. The three different models are Tiltmaster C for Compact Tractors (0-15 degrees), Tiltmaster D (0-25degrees) and Tiltmaster Extreme for specialist machines (0-45 degrees). Tiltmaster, now available from as little as £39 plus VAT, is a simple and effective method of providing additional health and safety data to users of groundcare and other machinery.

Simon Richard Ltd

Tel: 01450 860774 Email: simon@simon-richard.co.uk

www.facebook.com/simonrichardltd

4 Season shredder for year round e ectiveness Call: 01282 856819 www.psdgroundscare.co.uk

ALL YEAR

Dickies launches new jackets for winter 2020

Global workwear brand Dickies has added two new jackets to its range this season, both ideal for tradespeople who work outside throughout the year.

Padded for warmth, the Dickies Winter Softshell Jacket features stretch fabric for ease of movement – allowing the wearer to stay warm without the restrictive, bulky feel of some winter jackets.

Easy to embroider with company logos, the jacket is available in six colour-ways, making it simple to coordinate as part of a uniform.

Also new this season is the Dickies Winter Jacket, which benefits from quilted lining for added warmth on particularly cold days, plus a fleece-lined chin guard for extra comfort.

Both jackets are waterproof and breathable and include reflective details, plus adjustable cuffs and hems to retain warmth.

ICL’s quadruple FACTS and BASIS success

ICL Turf & Landscape is celebrating the success of four members of staff after two became FACTS Qualified Advisers and two were awarded their Full BASIS Amenity Advisor Awards.

BASIS is an independent standards-setting and auditing organisation for the pesticide, fertilizer and allied industries. It offers a range of recognised qualifications for people working in those sectors, including the BASIS and FACTS schemes, and manages the Professional Register for qualified advisers.

The BASIS Award is the national qualification for all those advising on the use, selling or supplying of plant protection products in the amenity industry. It is designed to enhance the understanding of turfgrass management, pest, weed and disease control, environmental issues and legislation. Those who gain the certificate become members of the BASIS

Professional Register; and newly added to that list are Matt Nutter and Andrew Pledger, ICL Technical Area Sales Managers operating in South Central and South East England.

Barry Browne, ICL’s Landscape & Industrial National Sales Manager, and Craig Lalley, Technical Area Sales Manager for North/ East successfully completed the Fertilizer Advisers Certification and Training Scheme (FACTS).

FACTS is available to those who have already qualified for the BASIS Professional Register and

want to gain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points. The course builds on an individual’s prior level of agronomic knowledge and candidates must have at least one year’s experience of fertilizer and nutrient management planning in the UK.

Successful FACTS participants demonstrate a full understanding of the role of fertilizers on the main crop groups in the UK and are able to make recommendations that are agronomically, economically and environmentally sound.

ICL

ROBOCUT RC28

Dickies